Williams, 38, played only 540 defensive snaps (53.8%) in 2010 and recorded 42 tackles, his fewest since 1998. His continued decline was obvious to scouts, and he underwent offseason surgery in January for the second consecutive year.

One of the defense's veteran leaders since joining the Vikings in 2005, Williams -- who will be an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins -- strongly hinted issues behind the scenes ruled out a possible return.

"Just don't trust everybody over there no more," he told Viking Update, noting his relationship with Frazier wasn't the problem.

"I feel if I got your back and you don't got my back, trust (is) gone. I play hard all the time, even (when) things (weren't) good all the time. I never quit on them, but I am always happy and blessed and I wish them the best."